Toaru Hikuushi e no Seiyaku:V2Part2

Part 10 (Part 2 of Volume 2) Mio doesn’t own a dress. Instead, she wears the navy female officer uniform provided by the school. The pure white outfit with shoulder insignia, collar insignia, gold trim, and polished white dress shoes that reflect her face. She has been instructed by the principal to wear this when receiving media coverage or attending dinner parties.

“I wonder how long we’ll have to keep doing this.”

Dressed in the constricting formal attire, Mio Syira, a third-year student at the Air Hunt Officer Academy, murmurs beside Cecil.

“At this rate, we’ll probably be doing this until the captain graduates. The principal has gotten used to dragging us around.”

Cecil Hauer, a second-year student at the Air Hunt Officer Academy, responds with resignation.

In their line of sight stands Balthazar Grim, a fourth-year student, engaging in cheerful conversation with high-ranking officials from the St Vault Naval Trade Department.

“Was he always this sociable?”

“He can do it if necessary. He won’t for students, but he’ll do it for someone he wants to get close to.”

“...I don’t know. It feels kind of strange.”

As they observe Balthazar’s lively profile, which they’ve never seen at school, Mio’s tone grows colder.

Today’s party is being held in the grand hall of a luxury hotel on Air Hunt Island. Beneath the high, boat-shaped ceiling, nearly a hundred dignitaries, officials, military personnel, and bureaucrats are engaged in lively conversation.

Mio remembers hearing from the principal in the car on the way over what kind of party it is, but she has forgotten. It’s the 10th anniversary of the governor of Air Hunt’s inauguration or something like that. Surely any topic would suffice. The people gathered here aim to assess the situation of their respective societies, gather information, and stave off boredom. For young, single men and women, it’s also a chance to meet.

“Ladies, are you bored? How about some cards in the smoking room?”

A gentleman, perhaps in his early twenties, approaches them from the side. He is one of Air Hunt Island’s influential politicians, here for a fundraising party. Beside him stand local representatives and officials, all dressed in expensive suits, exuding an air of familiarity with the setting.

Mio instantly wipes any displeasure from her face and puts on a social smile. “Thank you for your concern. However, we are with someone.”

“Oh, Balthazar! What a clear-headed young man; no wonder he’s the captain who accomplished a solo breakthrough. Of course, it was also lucky to be blessed with such excellent partners like you.”

“It’s an honour. However, we’re still students. We can’t smoke.”

“I see. You’re quite serious about this. I thought today’s students would indulge in that much.”

The young gentleman speaks with an air of sophistication that suggests he comes from an aristocratic background. Mio maintains a forced smile, concealing her discomfort, and replies, “The principal is here too. I’ll save smoking for after graduation.”

While not extinguishing her charm, she firmly declines. The young gentleman looks slightly disappointed, furrowing his brow and shrugging his shoulders. “That’s a shame. I’ll wait for another opportunity, Ms. Mio Syira.”

The three gentlemen, polite as ever, move on to another table in search of their next encounter.

“Mio, you’re always popular, aren’t you?”

Cecil remarks with admiration, but as soon as Mio removes her social mask, she shivers and wraps her arms around herself. “I can’t do this. I really don’t like this.” “It’s not impossible! You’re just getting better at handling it...”

“I don’t want to handle it. I’m really not good at this. Look, I have goosebumps...”

“Wow, you really do!”

Mio pulls up her sleeve to show Cecil the goosebumps covering her arms. “As soon as those people approached, this happened all over my body. The men from St Vault really do approach girls so easily. It’s unbelievable...”

Mio shrinks back, hugging herself as if she were seeing a scary bug. Her expression is somewhat pale.

“While you look like a St Vault person on the outside, inside, you’re an Akitsu Federation person, right? Is it true that if an Akitsu woman dates a man before marriage, it’s the death penalty?”

“It’s not that extreme, but if a pair of minors is seen walking alone, people look at them strangely. It’s fine for a girl to walk about three steps behind a boy, but if they walk side by side, adults will definitely yell at them...”

“That’s incredible! I can’t imagine that here—it sounds like prison! But that’s why you’re so rare and attract attention. You’re really popular at school.”

Cecil isn’t being sarcastic; she genuinely admires this. But Mio’s goosebumps only rise further as she shakes her head. Having spent her sensitive years from age twelve to seventeen in the Akitsu Federation, Mio's ideas about chastity are entirely coloured by her upbringing there.

In the two months since transferring to the Air Hunt Officer Academy, Mio has thrown dozens of love letters into the incinerator and has run away from countless invitations for dates. It’s not that she has high ideals or is being pretentious; she simply doesn’t accept the opposite sex, both physically and conceptually.

However, with her striking blonde hair and clear turquoise eyes, she inevitably draws attention, and the disparity between her eye-catching appearance and her overly strict attitude seems to stir the affections of the boys. Mio’s popularity continues to rise rather than wane.

“We’re officer candidates, yet everyone is acting strange, right? Why aren’t they focusing on studying instead of getting caught up in such unclean matters?”

“There’s a mindset in St Vault that enjoying life is essential. Therefore, those who don’t enjoy romance are missing out. Air Hunt students take both study and play equally seriously.”

Though the younger Cecil gently tries to counsel her, Mio merely tightens her embrace around herself and doesn’t listen.

“If I’m getting married, I can’t help that, but if I’m not, dating or becoming a couple is absolutely impossible. It’s disgraceful. That can wait until adulthood...”

Mio’s voice trails off. She lacks confidence in her own words. It’s true that looking at the students at Air Hunt, everyone is dedicated both to their studies and to having fun. In contrast, students at the Akitsu Federation’s Kanan Officer Academy focused solely on academics, and any involvement in romantic affairs was heavily discouraged. Students who indulged in such distractions were considered “slackers,” and sometimes faced disciplinary action from upperclassmen. If an Air Hunt student were to transfer to Kanan, they’d likely have their faces rearranged by the next day.

“Different countries have entirely different mindsets. I’m surprised. Of course, you shouldn’t just play around, but thinking that play itself is bad is harsh for St Vault people.”

“Yeah... I understand what you’re trying to say, Cecil. I get it, but...”

Mio struggles to articulate her thoughts, unsure of herself.

In the end, until the party ends, Mio silently fulfills her role in enhancing Balthazar’s reputation, all the while dealing with the advances of the dozen or so gentlemen who approached her, all the while shivering with goosebumps. By the time it’s 9:30 PM, she finally manages to get into the car for the ride home.

“Captain, how long are we going to keep doing this?”

In the backseat of a luxury car owned by the Air Hunt Officer Academy, Mio and Cecil sit on either side of Balthazar, glaring at his face. The principal remains at the venue, continuing casual conversation with influential figures, leaving only the students to make their way home.

“Whenever the opportunity arises.”

Removing the social mask he had worn at the party, Balthazar reveals his usual icy expression as he stares ahead, responding flatly.

“I don’t want to do this anymore. From now on, you can go by yourself, Captain.”

Mio firmly declines, but Balthazar answers nonchalantly in a familiar tone. “Do you know who your squad leader is? Who influences your grades?”

“It’s you, you know. I’ll report to the supervisor. No matter how much of a squad leader you are, you can’t treat squad members however you like.”

“Do as you please. It’s absurd for an officer candidate to refuse an invitation from higher-ups. If anyone’s being lazy, it’s you.”

“We’re not your accessories, Captain. There are plenty of other girls who are more socially adept.”

“If it were just any girl, I would have done it long ago. But the ones invited are the ‘Seven of Eriadore.’ I can’t bring Illia. She may excel in the air, but on the ground, she doesn’t even know how to smile politely. And Kagura might cut down any man she doesn’t like. It’s only natural that you and Cecil remain.”

“I’m not very charming either. I turned down all the invitations today.”

“You have social experience, right? The way you handled today’s men is not something an ordinary schoolgirl could do. You’ve grown up surrounded by the upper class since childhood. Isn’t that right?”

“...”

Mio swallows her words, feeling embarrassed that he can see through her.

“Cecil also knows how to socialize. She behaves innocently and freely but never crosses too far or allows others to invade her space. She expertly makes her presence fade behind you, Mio.”

Cecil, startled, widens her large eyes. “W-What!? That’s not true! I mean, I do try not to stand out too much, but I’m not disappearing like some ghost...”

Balthazar snorts, facing forward. “I know you’re just playing dumb. But someday, I’ll expose your true self. You’re hiding something...”

Mio and Cecil exchange glances. Today, Balthazar is more aggressive than usual. They can’t understand why he’s speaking so irrationally, as if he knows something.

Curious, Mio leans closer to Balthazar’s neck and, sniffing the air, suddenly exclaims, “Captain, you’ve been drinking!”

“I was with a lieutenant colonel from the naval command. I couldn’t refuse.”

Looking closely at Balthazar’s profile, she sees that his cheeks and the tip of his nose are slightly flushed. “Even though you’re underage! The principal was there too! If you get caught, you’ll be suspended!”

“I was just following orders. There’s no way I’d get drunk from just a glass of brandy. Hic.”

“You’re drunk! And that’s troublesome!”

“Shut up. Don’t meddle in my actions. I’ll continue to bring you along; refusal of orders will affect your grades, so don’t resist, just behave...”

As Balthazar tries to lean back and sleep, Cecil retorts, “Captain, you really enjoy socializing with the influential, don’t you? Is there some grand objective behind it?”

Balthazar, who had been about to close his eyes, opens one just slightly. “To achieve something, it’s quicker to borrow the power of others. It may seem like a roundabout way, but it’s the most efficient way to accomplish my goal.”

He dismisses this with an air of annoyance, closing his eye again. They wait for him to continue, but nothing follows.

“So, what is that goal?”

Cecil unusually puffs out her cheeks, pressing for answers, but already, Balthazar’s breath has turned to sleep. “He’s falling asleep. Drunk. He’s so selfish.”

Cecil grumbles, looking ahead. Mio, too, gazes out the window, her expression one of exasperation as she absently watches the dark, rural roads of Air Hunt Island.

“It’s been two months since we came to this island. Time flies...” “It’s been a real commotion, hasn’t it? Things have calmed down recently, but I guess the captain still wants more excitement...”

She likely wants to be able to play freely with her peers instead of attending these stuffy gatherings in her constricting formal attire. Today, for some reason, Cecil’s tone becomes more agitated.

“The media, magazines, radio interviews—he’s taken them all. It feels like all the credit is going to the captain. That’s how the world sees it. He’s the one who opposed the night landing until the very end, but that gets ignored. Is that okay with you, Mio?”

At the question, worry fills Mio’s eyes. To raise war morale and increase the number of volunteers, the naval public relations department has greatly embellished the “Seven of Eriadore’s” journey, restructuring it into a “heroic story” with Balthazar as the protagonist. The climax is the night landing incident.

To save Mio, who had suffered a severe injury to her thigh, Captain Balthazar decided on a night landing. If they failed, all seven would die, but Balthazar boldly insisted, “I can’t survive by sacrificing my comrades. We all must return alive.” And pilot Illia magnificently fulfilled that expectation, successfully landing... that’s how the story goes.

But that’s not the reality. It was Kiyoaki who insisted on the night landing. Balthazar had argued, “Are you suggesting we risk all our lives for Mio alone?” and “If Mio is lucky, she might just lose her left leg.” He opposed it until the very end, but after being persuaded by Kagura and Illia, they ultimately took a vote and, having suffered a crushing defeat, he reluctantly agreed to land, throwing out a casual remark about how they could kill him if they wanted.

However, the truth was never conveyed to the public; it became a tale of the brave and considerate Balthazar saving Mio. It is more convenient for the St Vault Navy that Balthazar is the protagonist rather than Kiyoaki, who would attract attention as an Akitsu person.

“That’s not good. But in the end, the captain approved too, so I guess it’s fine. If he had used his authority, he could have opposed it until the end and prevented the landing.”

Mio can only say this with uncertainty. She feels guilty for putting the lives of the other six at risk for her own sake, and even if she were the captain, she would likely share Balthazar’s views. Logically, one shouldn’t risk the lives of the entire crew to save a single member. What Mio can do is only to express her gratitude to the six who put their lives on the line for her.

“Mio, you’re such a nice person. Ahh... That’s why you get used by the captain. In the end, it’s those shameless people who benefit.”

Cecil mutters, loud enough to be heard, but Balthazar continues to sleep soundly. Among the “Seven of Eriadore,” Balthazar has appeared most frequently in the media, actively mingling with politicians, military leaders, and high-ranking bureaucrats, making sure his face and name are well known.

Incidentally, Kiyoaki was the primary pilot during the night landing, but in the naval “heroic story,” it’s claimed that Illia was the one who piloted the plane. It’s better for the propaganda and morale of the St Vault Air Force that the daughter of the former “King of the Sky,” Karsten Kreischmidt, successfully accomplished the landing rather than an exchange student from Akitsu. What is circulated in the world is a heavily altered tale of the seven.

And just as if to escape Cecil’s cold gaze, Balthazar’s head tilts to the side, and his body leans onto Mio. “Hey, Captain...”

Balthazar rests his head on Mio’s left shoulder, falling into a deep sleep. Mio, who has no resistance to the opposite sex, flails to push him away, but Balthazar clings to her, sound asleep. “Oh my, you two look good together.”

Cecil teases with a sidelong glance. The usual coldness, calculating demeanour, and arrogance are nowhere to be found; it’s a boyish sleeping face that seems innocent and soft.

“Captain! Enough already!”

As Mio pushes him away forcefully, Balthazar finally corrects his position, opening his eyes slightly. “...Huh? Was I asleep?”

“It’s fine to sleep, but please don’t use me as a pillow.”

“...Is that so? Was I asleep?”

With a faint scent of brandy wafting from him, Balthazar repeats his earlier words and closes his eyes again, quickly falling back into slumber.

As she gazes at the sleeping Balthazar, Mio reflects on how she had been angry the entire time, but now, Cecil’s tone turns somewhat worried. “Captain, you must be really tired... Even though you attend parties every week, you still maintain top grades in mock battles and classes. That’s impressive.”

“...Yeah. I heard from the supervisor that he studies late into the night. They say he’s up past lights out, studying until dawn in the officer’s quarters...”

Mio and Cecil look at Balthazar from both sides. His usual mature sternness has vanished, revealing a pure, soft sleeping face. While the average student would be exhausted just completing daytime classes at the Air Hunt Officer Academy and would go straight to bed at night, Balthazar compensates for the time he spends attending parties with intense late-night study sessions.

Though he seems arrogant, selfish, and indifferent to others, the sight of him diligently devoting himself to a goal is impressive. Mio thinks this to herself.

The moment she does, Balthazar tilts again, this time resting his head fully against her left shoulder. “So, Captain...”

Cecil gives Mio a playful smile. “He’s a jerk, but let him sleep. He’ll probably study late again tonight.”

“Easy for you to say...”

Mio puffs her cheeks but, as Cecil pointed out, she thinks it would be cruel to wake him up.

With a huff of irritation escaping her, Mio rests her chin on the window frame, allowing Balthazar to lean against her shoulder, her gaze drifting out the window.

She decides to let him sleep. While she can’t call him a nice person, he certainly risked his life for her during the night landing, and she feels grateful that he’s still alive.

From Balthazar’s blonde hair comes the scent of alcohol and tobacco. Though she’s uncomfortable with the opposite sex, Balthazar views Mio more as a tool than a woman. While she finds it frustrating, the physiological aversion is mild. More than that, she wants to give rest to the comrades with whom she exchanged that “oath.”

—Even if we become enemies, we will not hate each other. —Friendship is eternal.

Quietly repeating the “oath” in her heart, Mio smiles reluctantly. “For now, Captain.”

For the next ten or so minutes, until they arrive in front of the student dormitory, Mio continues to lend her left shoulder to Balthazar.

Having achieved a breakthrough in enemy lines with the Eriadore and enhanced the reputation of the Air Hunt Officer Academy, the principal awarded Kiyoaki and the other six a coveted "privilege" to encourage the motivation of other officer candidates.

This is the ultimate privilege that all 2,400 students at the Air Hunt Officer Academy drool over—

A dedicated officer room for the seven of them.

“Wow, finally done! Now we have free time!”

Leaning back on the three-person sofa and gazing at the ceiling, Reiner exhales a sigh of relief. He has discarded his uniform, now dressed in a long-sleeve T-shirt and cotton loungewear, looking casual.

“I’m done too. Meteorology was tough at first, but once I got the hang of it, it became interesting.”

Kiyoaki, having finished his preparation for tomorrow’s classes, collapses onto the sofa across from him. The clock on the bookshelf shows 10:30 PM. If he were still at the Kanan Officer Academy he had attended two months ago, it would have long passed lights-out time. But in this officer room, there is no set lights-out time. It’s a paradise where no one complains if they stay up until dawn.

The living room is equipped with two sofas, a table, a radio, and shelves filled with books along the walls. There’s also a kitchen, allowing for nighttime snacks if they stock up on ingredients. Opening the door leads to a study room with seven partitioned desks for studying. For officer candidates who would normally be crammed into shared dorms, this is an unparalleled environment, making it only natural that the seven of them call this place home.

After finishing their daily routines and lounging on the sofa, Mio and Cecil, still in their uniforms, enter the officer room.

“Good work! Aki, are you done with your duties too?”

Cecil cheerfully exclaims, hopping onto the sofa next to Kiyoaki with a grin. Kiyoaki responds with a warm smile. “Yeah, somehow I managed. Are you accompanying the captain again today?”

“I don’t want to go anymore! I complained to the captain the entire ride, but he didn’t listen at all! I really can’t take it anymore; I’m totally worn out!”

As Cecil pouts, Kiyoaki looks up at Mio. “You must be tired too, Mio. It’s tough for you, especially since you dislike parties.”

Mio sighs in response. “You should join us once in a while. After all, you’re invited too.”

“I’m not really... I don’t even know what to do there, and the captain clearly told me, ‘You don’t have to come.’”

“Really, that captain...! He treats others like tools. It’s unbelievable.”

With her anger evident, Mio walks over to the kitchen and puts on an apron over her uniform. “Ooh, late-night snack? I want pasta!”

Reiner immediately demands. Mio realizes she’s still in her apron and exclaims, “No way, this is scary!”

“Mio, you’ve made cooking a habit. You’ve been doing it every day, right?”

Mio, slightly troubled, pinches the hem of her apron. “I wonder if it’s stress. As soon as I get here, I instinctively put on an apron. I can’t help but cook. Kiyoaki, do you want something?”

“I want katsudon!”

“At this hour!? No way, frying is too much hassle.”

“Yeah, but I’m really hungry...”

“Mio, I want salted pasta! Just boil it and sprinkle some salt on it!!”

“Fine, fine. Cecil, you’re not hungry anymore, right? Just wait a bit. I’ll make it for the two of you right away...”

Reluctantly retreating to the kitchen, Mio returns fifteen minutes later with two steaming bowls of katsudon. “I told you I wanted salted pasta!!”

Reiner shouts, but Mio looks puzzled. “What? Really? I didn’t hear that.”

“Thank you, Mio! You’re so efficient!”

Kiyoaki accepts the katsudon and digs in with his chopsticks. “Wow, this is delicious! Mio’s katsudon is the best!”

With rice grains sticking to his cheeks, Kiyoaki beams. While katsudon is a popular dish among the young in the Akitsu Federation, Reiner looks suspiciously at the bowl. “What is this...? The egg is all runny. Why is the fried pork wet? Akitsu food makes no sense...”

Complaining, he scoops the contents with a spoon, presenting the bowl towards Mio. “Refill, please.”

“You seem to like it. Dinner is over now. Eating a lot at this hour isn’t good for your health.”

“Really? What is this? It’s so good...” Kiyoaki says, looking at Reiner. “You always make her cook for you, huh? That’s so unfair.”

While munching, Kiyoaki glances at Reiner. “I don’t make her do anything. Mio’s good at cooking, so she makes it for us. ...Thanks for the meal. Mio, it was delicious. I ate a lot for dinner, but I got hungry again quickly...”

“Anytime. I end up cooking a lot to relieve stress. I wish I could do something about it...”

Complaining to herself, Mio starts cleaning up the bowls while looking around the kitchen. There’s a frying pan, a soup pot, a large oven, and among the St Vault kitchen utensils, there are also Akitsu tools her parents sent her like cooking chopsticks, fish grilling nets, steamer baskets, and a rice cooker. Officer school students receive a stipend, but Mio spends most of it on ingredients, passionately making delicious meals every night.

“I’m still hungry. I want more of that soggy pork cutlet!”

As Reiner throws out his envious request toward Mio, Kagura appears at the entrance, peeking her head in. “Oh, what a nice smell. Is that... tonkatsu?”

Throwing down the kendo equipment she was carrying, she approaches the kitchen, drawn in by the aroma. Mio smiles and says, “It’s katsudon. Would you like some, Kagura?”

“No, I’m good. You're already cleaning up.”

“Not at all, I can make more. I was thinking about eating a bit too.”

“Really? ...Can I take you up on that? It’s embarrassing, but I always get a little hungry after practice.”

“Sure, I’ll make it right away! Just wait a moment.”

“Thanks. I’m actually quite hungry. I think Illia is too.”

Just then, Illia enters, carrying her kendo equipment behind Kagura. Mio beams at Illia, “Good work, Illia. You must be hungry, right? You’re having a late-night snack, aren’t you?”

Illia’s usual stoic demeanour softens a little at Mio’s warmth. Nodding slightly, she says, “...Thanks, Mio. ...I appreciate it.”

Gratefully, she awkwardly expresses her thanks. Mio waves her hands in front of her. “It’s fine, it’s fine. Just wait. I’ll make it right away.”

Mio re-ties her apron, pulls out the cooking oil she had put away, and begins frying new tonkatsu for the two of them. As Reiner’s envy intensifies, “Mio, make sure to get me some too...”

“Oh, I totally forgot. Fine, I’ll make it...”

Efficiently coating the next batch in breadcrumbs, she tosses Reiner’s portion into the pot.

Looking up at Kagura and Illia, Kiyoaki greets them. “Good work! You’re practicing kendo late again.”

Kagura plops down heavily onto the sofa, exhaling a sigh of relief.

“The number of members has significantly decreased. We’ve pushed them hard, after all. Only those who truly want to master kendo remain. It’s down to... about eight now.”

“Anita and William submitted their withdrawal notices today. Including me and Kagura, there are six members left.”

At Illia’s words, Kagura nods with satisfaction. Cecil, listening to their exchange, furrows her brow and sighs. “I don’t get it. There were so many members at first. Why would you want to reduce the numbers like this? Kagura, you were so popular with the underclassmen...”

Two months ago, after transferring to the Air Hunt Officer Academy, Kagura established a kendo club to pass on the traditional martial arts of the Akitsu Federation to St Vault. Initially, she thought if she gathered five members, that would suffice, but over eighty students showed up, leading to a situation where they couldn’t supply equipment for everyone. Many students joined not to learn kendo but simply to get closer to Kagura, who was popular among the younger girls. After some consideration, Kagura imposed harsh training on the members to encourage those with less serious intentions to leave voluntarily.

“You can’t master the way of the sword with impure motives. It’s a waste of time for everyone. I want to train only those who are genuinely seeking kendo.”

Kagura states firmly, glancing at Illia. “...I agree.”

Illia responds with minimal words, crossing her arms and leaning against the wall with her usual stoic expression, closing her eyes. Kagura has said that Illia’s potential in kendo is quite significant and that in three years, she could become a master instructor.

“Kiyoaki, it’s not too late to join now. We would welcome you!”

Encouraged by Kagura, Kiyoaki ponders. Initially, he intended to join just to help establish the club, but after seeing the overwhelming number of applicants, he thought, “The club will be recognized even if I don’t join.” However, if they continue to drive out the less serious students, they’ll soon fall below the required five members and be forced to disband.

“Illia said that kendo can be applied to aerial combat. After trying mock aerial battles, I really felt that. Even though I lack experience compared to everyone else, I’ve recently started to win, and it’s largely due to the benefits of kendo.”

“...I’ve heard that from my father’s colleagues a few times as well. But it feels awkward to join now. It’s just... I don’t know how to explain it...”

Kiyoaki mumbles, glancing at Illia, but she remains still.

“Illia—does kendo help in aerial combat?”

Cecil asks, and Illia slightly opens her eyes to respond. “...It’s helpful.”

She bluntly states before closing her eyes again. Kagura adds to her incomplete sentence. “Kendo is a unique system of techniques that evolved from the battlefield where swords clashed. It’s the crystallization of combat techniques honed over centuries by masters called geniuses during times of war. The essence lies in controlling the enemy’s actions—essentially, shoot before being shot. While it’s easy to say, executing this technique is difficult. The superiority of kendo comes from being able to repeatedly train this on the ground. By mastering kendo, I believe Illia will become even stronger in aerial combat.”

As she finishes, Kagura’s gaze shifts to Kiyoaki.

Kiyoaki simply hangs his head. Even as he is now, he can’t keep up with Illia in aerial combat, and at this rate, the gap will only widen.

“...Well. Um... yes. Please let me think about the joining matter...”

Kagura smiles. “I’ll be waiting. I’m sure it will help you overcome your weaknesses.”

Kiyoaki hangs his head even lower, responding only with a murmured acknowledgment. —I’m definitely being overshadowed by Illia.

He thinks to himself.

In these two months, he hasn’t really spoken to Illia. Her words have always been few, and unlike when they were both holding the control stick of an aircraft, there’s no real connection in their daily lives. Even when they meet here in the officer room, they don’t open up to each other; only a tense atmosphere lingers, and as time passes, their distance seems to grow.

Just then, “Sorry to keep you waiting! Please enjoy!”

Mio brings three steaming bowls of katsudon to the table. Kagura’s expression brightens. “Katsudon! It’s been a while. Thanks to Mio, we can enjoy Akitsu cuisine here. Itadakimasu!”

After clapping her hands together, Kagura grabs a bowl and digs in with gusto. With her eyes closed, she chews and savours, emitting a satisfied “Kuu...” as she shakes her head from side to side. “Ah... this is... delicious! It’s the best, Mio. Marry me!”

“Yay! I’d love to!”

She enthusiastically offers a refill. “Please!”

Receiving the empty bowl thrust toward her, Mio happily returns to the kitchen. Meanwhile, Illia stands still, holding her bowl in her left hand and chopsticks in her right, merely staring at the contents. Kagura notices and asks, “What’s wrong, Illia? Is this your first time having katsudon?”

“...Yes. How should I eat it?”

“In Akitsu, we eat dishes like this heartily. Stuff your mouth full and chew with gusto!”

At this, Illia looks even more tense as she gazes at the katsudon. Hesitantly, she picks up a piece with her chopsticks, sniffs it, and cautiously takes a bite, as if a sparrow pecking at its food. “...It’s good. Yeah... Mio, it’s delicious.”

As she offers her praise, Mio turns with a smile. “I’m glad. I was worried about whether St Vault folks would like it.”

“Really... Mio, you’re an excellent cook.”

For some reason, Illia says this sadly, then sits down next to Kagura and eats quietly. After a moment, she places her empty bowl on the table with a clatter, “...Thank you for the meal. I’ll clean up.”

“Oh, it’s fine. Just leave it. I’ll take care of it.”

Mio quickly moves to clear the bowls. Illia looks apologetic. “You don’t have to do everything by yourself...”

“It’s fine, really. Just let me do this. Otherwise, I’ll feel bad.”

“........”

As Mio retreats to the kitchen, Illia silently watches her.

Mio takes to heart the sacrifices the six made for her during the night landing. That’s why she works selflessly for everyone, trying to give back in whatever way she can.

“...Then, I’ll study. Cecil, don’t stay up too late.”

After stating this quietly, Illia disappears into the study room at the back. “Okay!” Cecil replies, watching her go. “I wish Illia would chat with everyone a bit more. Aki, you haven’t talked to Illia much lately, have you?”

“Uh, yeah... It’s just hard to approach her...”

“She got closer to you after the night landing. Illia tends to retreat into her shell immediately. I thought you’d be able to change that!”

“I don’t think I can change her... I’m not that impressive.”

“It’s not about being impressive. Ah—... how do I put this?”

“I’m hopeless. Whatever works, I guess? It’s hard to imagine Illia being friendly with everyone.”

Just as Reiner interjects, Cecil puffs out her cheeks. “You don’t understand Illia at all! She’s really feminine at heart... but she never shows that side...”

In the end, she says this with a hint of sadness. It seems Cecil has been very attached to Illia since they first met five years ago. Her feelings for Illia are stronger than anyone else's.

After everyone finishes their meals, Mio wraps up the dishes and joins them on the sofa for casual chatter.

“I hear Illia’s hair is done by Cecil, right? That’s a skill!”

Cecil responds proudly, “I do it because if Illia does it herself, it’ll end up looking like a boy’s cut. I first met Illia five years ago, and she had that short boyish haircut because her dad told her to do it. I felt so bad for her... So, I’ve been taking care of Illia’s hair ever since. It’s such a waste for someone so beautiful to have such a short style...”

“Yeah, that hair is stunning! It really suits Illia. Cecil, you could become a hair designer in the future!”

“Really? I’m so happy! If you’d like, I can do your hair too, Mio!”

With an innocent smile, Cecil continues her light-hearted talk. Her cheerful demeanour brings warmth to the atmosphere, and just having her around eases the tension.

Then, the door at the entrance opened again.

“Still awake? Hurry up and sleep,”

Balthazar, who had just woken from a nap, entered with a cold remark. The atmosphere, which had just been lightened by Cecil, instantly froze, but Kagura maintained her usual friendly demeanour,

“Hey, Balthazar. I see you’re busy networking again.”

“I’m doing this instead of you all. I don’t have to take your criticism.”

Without a proper greeting, Balthazar headed straight for the study room when Mio called out to his back.

“Captain, are you going to eat katsudon too?”

“Is that a dish from the Akitsu Federation? Sounds unremarkable.”

“It’s fried pork cutlet topped with egg and sauce, served over rice.”

“That sounds strange. I have no need for it.”

“Well, if you’re not hungry, that’s fine.”

Balthazar, still holding onto the doorknob of the study room, thought for a moment, then slightly turned his profile toward Mio.

“I’m a bit short on calories. Do you have any sandwiches?”

“I can make a ham sandwich right away.”

“The saltiness of ham is unnecessary. An egg sandwich would be preferable.”

“An egg sandwich? Yes, I can make that.”

“Don’t add salt. No seasoning is needed. I want boiled egg sliced and placed between toasted bread, served with hot coffee.”

After giving his order, he opened the door and disappeared into the study room.

Watching Mio prepare, Cecil sighed dramatically, “Mio... you’re too accommodating...”

“The captain’s demands are too detailed.”

“That’s fine, I like cooking.”

Mio cheerfully replied as she started boiling eggs. Kagura, looking affectionately at Mio, said, “If you ever want to get rid of Balthazar, let me know. I’ll slice him in half anytime.”

“Please don’t say such reckless things... I’m actually scared you might do it. The captain is fundamentally a difficult person, but he’s not entirely without good points.”

With a troubled smile, Mio skilfully made the egg sandwiches and took them, along with coffee, to the study room. After watching her leave, Kagura muttered contentedly to herself, “She’s my wife.”

“That’s not true,” Cecil countered.

Denying her, Kagura stretched and tightened her expression. “Well then, the break is over. I should study too.”

“I think I’ll take a nap...”

“I’ll sleep too—Kiyoaki, what about you?”

“Yeah, I think I’ll study a little longer.”

“Oh, I see. Then good luck with that!”

Kagura entered the study room, while Cecil and Reiner returned to their shared dorm.

Left alone in the living room, Kiyoaki washed the dishes that Mio had left in the kitchen. Shortly after, Mio returned from the study room.

“Oh, it’s fine, you don’t have to do that. I’ll take care of it.”

“I’m okay, Mio. Just take a little break.”

“I’m fine, really.”

“Just let me handle it.”

“...If you really want to, then okay.”

With a somewhat displeased expression, Mio sat down on the sofa. Letting out a sigh, she looked around the living room, now just the two of them. “It feels like we’ve gotten quite accustomed to living here...”

“Yeah. It feels like home.”

After finishing the dishes, Kiyoaki sat on the sofa opposite Mio. “Do you want some tea? I can make it quickly.”

“Oh, sure. That would be great.”

Feeling relaxed, Kiyoaki leaned back against the chair and gazed at the ceiling.

Now that he thought about it, it had been quite a while since he had been alone with Mio like this.

Since transferring to the Air Hunt Officer Academy, they had been constantly surrounded by noise as “The Seven of Eriadore.” The busyness and clamour had made it so they hadn’t spent time together like this since before coming here.

“Sorry to keep you waiting. I’ll be studying too, so make it a little stronger.”

Mio expertly placed two cups on the table and poured steaming straight tea from the pot.

The lively atmosphere from earlier disappeared, leaving only the quiet of the two of them in the living room. It was a comfortable silence, one that he had known since childhood.

“It’s been a while since it’s just been us like this, hasn’t it?”

Mio asked from across the table. It seemed they were both thinking the same thing.

“Yeah, this is the first time since coming here. It’s been so busy...”

Kiyoaki took a sip of the tea. It seemed Mio's brewing was good, as the refreshing aroma filled his nostrils.

“...Thank you.”

Suddenly, Mio said that awkwardly.

“Eh?”

Caught off guard, Kiyoaki stared at Mio in confusion.

Her cheeks flushed bright red, and she looked away.

“...I wanted to say this two months ago, but I didn’t have the chance. I hadn’t said it yet, so I’m saying it now. That’s all.”

Mio said this unusually seriously and then looked down shyly.

Wondering what she meant, Kiyoaki finally realized it was about the night landing.

He had been the most adamant about the night landing, even hurling insults at Balthazar, daring to attempt a reckless landing that even veteran airmen would avoid, and miraculously succeeded.

“...About the landing? Well, you can thank everyone for that.”

“...I already did. But I was late telling you.”

Mio mumbled her words.

Over the past two months, her usual lively demeanour had disappeared, replaced by an odd shyness, and now Kiyoaki understood why.

He exhaled and smiled at Mio to reassure her.

“Don’t mention it. Is that why you’ve been so quiet?”

“...Well, I can’t act all high and mighty after putting everyone’s lives on the line.”

“It's fine now. You don’t need to feel indebted forever. By the way, have you heard anything about Fio?”

“...Nothing at all. I’m worried, but I think she’s still alive somewhere...”

When the topic shifted to Fio, Mio gazed out the dark window with a concerned expression.

Fio was a very intelligent bird that Mio had kept since she was a child. She was the reason Kiyoaki and Mio had first gotten to know each other, sometimes behaving as if she understood Mio’s words.

When they took the Eriadore airship to St Vault, Fio had to be left at Mio’s home. It was necessary because pets were not allowed in the student dormitory. Shortly after transferring, they received a telegram from Mio’s family saying that Fio had gone missing. Since then, they had no news of Fio.

“She probably flew off after chasing after you. She was attached to you.”

“Yeah... probably. We’ve been together since she was born... I’m worried. I hope she isn’t trying to find this place...”

“Don’t worry. Fio is really smart; she’s definitely alive. You’ll meet her again someday. So, you need to cheer up and do your best.”

“I know. I’m doing my best. I’m busy every day right now...”

“Mio, you’re in navigation, right? That must be tough...”

At the Air Hunt Officer Academy, the curriculum was divided into three specializations. Kiyoaki and Illia were in the pilot specialization (Pilo), while Mio and Cecil were in the navigation specialization (Navi). Balthazar, Kagura, and Reiner were in the combined pilot and navigation program (PiloNavi).

“It's better than the combined program. Those in the combined program are definitely aiming for promotions in the military. I can’t do that. I mean, apart from the captain and Kagura, I think Reiner is keeping up pretty well.”

“Reiner is skilful. He acts carefree, but his abilities are impressive.”

“He would be amazing if he took it seriously. But he probably won’t.”

Mio said this without much concern. Kiyoaki decided to ask something that had been bothering him.

“Since then, has Reiner said anything strange to you?”

“Eh? What do you mean by strange?”

“Well... like what he said when you first met.”

Mio looked at Kiyoaki with a puzzled expression, then realized what he meant and responded with a sigh.

“Not really. Why are you worried about that?”

“U-uh, it’s not worry or anything... But still, people here are a bit different from those in Akitsu, right?”

“Yeah... it’s quite different. But Reiner doesn’t say anything... Other people do, though...”

Mio looked down; her eyes clouded.

Two months ago, Reiner had suddenly started flirting with Mio upon their first meeting, shocking Kiyoaki. He had never seen a boy express his feelings for a girl in public back when he was in Akitsu. He thought Reiner was the only one, but now he saw numerous boys openly approaching Mio.

Every time he witnessed or heard about such scenes, something painful stirred deep within Kiyoaki.

“Yeah... I see. That must be tough.”

He hid his turmoil and responded earnestly. Unlike the students in St Vault, Kiyoaki didn’t know how to express these feelings. He had been taught that such emotions should not be displayed.

“Yeah, well... I don’t really know.”

Mio mumbled, unsure.

“But, how should I put it... it’s impressive. It’s great that you’re popular with everyone.”

"......"

"Yeah... I think so. Really."

Struggling to find the right words, Kiyoaki slumped his shoulders. He should have been happy to finally be alone with Mio, but things felt different this time.

—Mio is popular.

That single fact threw off Kiyoaki’s rhythm. A feeling of anxiety he had never experienced before stirred within him. He couldn’t manage himself well and couldn’t converse with Mio as easily as before.

"......I don't really understand."

Mio seemed equally at a loss for how to respond, her words lacking clarity. Both of them fell silent, their faces flushed.

Once again, a stillness settled in.

Not knowing where to direct his gaze, Kiyoaki absently wandered his eyes around and suddenly noticed a ring on Mio's right hand.

He didn't know when it had slipped onto her finger. It could have been there for a long time or since they arrived here. But that ring brought back memories of the canola flower fields back on Messus Island.

After Kiyoaki had placed a tiara made of canola flowers on Mio's head.

"Next, I’ll give you a silver ring, Kiyoaki! That way, the ritual will be complete, and our love will last forever!"

In the end, the promise of that ring had become vague, and she never received it. The ring now on Mio’s right hand could perhaps be related to that promise.

Clatter.

His thoughts were interrupted by an odd sound. A strange presence seemed to be coming from the door. Keeping his gaze fixed on it, Kiyoaki stood up from the sofa.

"......?"

Mio looked up at him, puzzled, and Kiyoaki raised a finger to his lips to signal her to be quiet, then approached the door on tiptoe and opened it suddenly.

"......What are you doing?"

In the hallway, Cecil and Reiner were crouched down, pressing their ears against the space where the door had been.

"I remembered something important!"

"I thought about coming back, but it was awkward with you two here!"

Both of them wore exaggerated smiles, offering excuses for eavesdropping.

Kiyoaki sighed and looked down at them with an exasperated expression.

"Just come in normally..."

"Y-Yeah, you’re right! But, you know, I felt like I should be more considerate!"

With a giggle, Cecil stood up, tugging on Reiner's hand as they walked down the hallway again.

"I felt like there was something I needed to do, but thinking about it, there wasn't! Well then, Kiyoaki, good luck studying!"

While being pulled by Cecil, Reiner hurriedly followed her out into the hallway. Kiyoaki watched them disappear down the stairs before returning to the living room. Mio was just about to take the empty tea cups to the kitchen.

"......What a bunch. They could just walk in instead of sneaking around."

He muttered to himself. Although he pretended not to notice, he truly understood what Reiner and Cecil were expecting.

An awkward atmosphere inevitably drifted between Mio and Kiyoaki.

While washing the cups at the sink, Mio spoke up from behind.

"I... I'm going to bed now."

"......Ah, okay. Sure..."

"Y-Yeah. You should take it easy too. If you wear yourself out, it won't do you any good."

"Yeah..."

"Well then, good night."

After awkwardly saying that, Mio, her face bright red, hurriedly left the living room.

Left alone in the space, Kiyoaki felt lost. He had finally been given the chance to talk to Mio without barriers, but even that simple thing seemed to elude him.

—I'm no good...

He sank deeply into the sofa, staring up at the ceiling with a troubled expression. Coupled with his inability to win mock air battles, he felt like he was going to sink into despair.

But realizing this, he lifted his face and slapped his cheeks with both hands. Then he tightened his expression and forced himself to shake off the negative feelings.

"Let's study."

Encouraging himself, Kiyoaki entered the study room. He passed by Kagura, Balthazar, and Illia, who were all focused on their desks, and turned on the light at his own desk. He decided to review the subject he struggled with the most: political science. Among the four students in the study room, he resolved to be the last one remaining to study.

He concentrated, pouring all his efforts into understanding the geopolitical interpretations of the archipelago and the concept of sea power.

He awoke to the morning light. By then, no one remained in the study room, and Kiyoaki was the only one, drowsily looking around.

Somehow, a blanket had been placed on his back. He didn't know who had done it, but considering who had been in the study room, he thought it was Kagura. Later, when he thanked her, she responded with a puzzled, "No, it wasn't me."